East Traverse City

Grand Traverse County 49686

$527,847 Average Value

East Traverse City is convenient to stores, restaurants and beaches

At the start of the Old Mission Peninsula, East Traverse City offers a slow-paced lifestyle by Grand Traverse Bay and its two arms, known locally as East Bay and West Bay. “I’m a big advocate for [East Traverse City],” says Brian McGillivary, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, who has lived in the neighborhood for about 25 years. “It’s quieter and less congested, but you’re still right on the edge of downtown.” For some, it’s a modest place to live, convenient not only to downtown but to neighborhood stores, restaurants and public beaches. Those with waterfront properties enjoy the same amenities along with their million-dollar estates. Life by the water here also comes with a unique weather phenomenon. “We have three seasons: winter, summer and fall,” McGillivary says. “We don’t really have spring weather because the bay is a big ice cube that keeps the area cold. We basically have a long extension of winter, and then boom — it’s summer.”

From small condos to million-dollar waterfront homes along East and West Bay

East Traverse City has a mix of condominiums and single-family homes. One-to-three-bedroom condos sell for around $200,000 to $500,000. As for single-family homes, small cottages and ranch-style homes sell for around $160,000 to $340,000. More spacious ranch-style and bi-level houses range from around $370,000 to $630,000. Larger upscale houses can go for around $690,000 to $930,000. Many waterfront properties have private beaches, but they don’t hit the market often. There was a recent sale along the East Bay for $1.5 million. According to McGillivary, houses along the West Bay tend to cost more, and the most he’s seen a waterfront property sell for is around $3.5 million.Traverse City has a moderate risk of flooding. In East Traverse City, flood maps show waterfront homes along the West Bay as having a great chance of being impacted by flooding. Some areas inland are at risk as well, including homes in the middle of the Orchard Drive loop and near College Drive.

Beaches on both bays and fun at Grand Traverse County Civic Center

While downtown is perhaps the most booming spot for beach activity, there are several beaches open to the public in East Traverse City. “It seems most people don’t even know about East Bay Park,” McGillivary says. “What’s nice is the East Bay actually gets warmer because it’s much shallower and heats up faster.” Along with seasonal swimming in the warm, shallow water, locals can relax on the sandy beach, go boating or have fun on the playground in the grassy area. Bryant Park offers a similar experience on the West Bay. Grand Traverse County Civic Center has several ball fields used by local youth leagues and tournaments, an outdoor skate park, an indoor ice-skating rink and a mile-long trail around the park. The Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) runs along Parsons Road and the railroad all the way to downtown.

Local stores and restaurants on Front Street

Most stores and restaurants are along Front Street, also known as U.S. Route 31. There’s a wide variety of places to eat. It’s home to The Omelette Shoppe, a local chain known for its breakfast and brunch. The Cottage is another Traverse City staple, serving American comfort food to the community for decades. The neighborhood has some regional chains, including Detroit Wing Company, the only location in Traverse City. Front Street has a few shopping centers with big-box retailers, such as Tom’s Food Market, a city-wide grocery chain. According to McGillivary, many people shop at Costco, about 10 minutes away just south of the Cherry Capital Airport which is just south of the neighborhood. Some local stores on Front Street include Benjamin Twiggs, a gift basket shop, and Wild Birds Unlimited, which sells bird-feeding products.

Steps away from elementary and high school

Many elementary and high school students can walk to school. Eastern Elementary School is in the neighborhood and receives a B-plus grade from Niche. East Middle School is also graded a B-plus but is about 5 miles away. Back in the neighborhood, Central High School, which serves students in grades 8 through 12, receives an A-minus. In 2025, the high school expanded its STEM program by opening an Innovation and Manufacturing Center. Post-secondary students can stay in the neighborhood by attending Northwestern Michigan College, a community college with more than 60 degree and certification programs.

Free shuttle rides from the Bayline

Bayline, Traverse City’s free shuttle system, operates bus routes along Front Street, which can be taken downtown and to other parts of the city. To drive downtown, it’s about a 5-minute trip. The Bayline also runs to Cherry Capital Airport, which is just south of the neighborhood, where travelers can fly to 19 major U.S. cities.

Written By

Nicolas Stuart

Was this overview helpful?

Agents Specializing in this Area

Danielle Jerome

Responds Quickly

Coldwell Banker Schmidt Traver

(947) 886-8274

158 Total Sales

3 in East Traverse City

$145K - $157K Price Range

Danielle Jerome
Eldon Palmer

616 Realty LLC

(269) 430-2823

98 Total Sales

1 in East Traverse City

$507,500 Price

Eldon Palmer
Brian McGillivary

Responds Quickly

Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices - TC

(231) 714-6145

27 Total Sales

2 in East Traverse City

$316K - $595K Price Range

Brian McGillivary
Lydia Wiley

@properties Christie's Int'l

(888) 364-8716

32 Total Sales

3 in East Traverse City

$270K - $1.1M Price Range

Lydia Wiley
T. J. Shimek

Responds Quickly

The Mitten Real Estate Group

(231) 714-6614

443 Total Sales

2 in East Traverse City

$410K - $510K Price Range

T. J. Shimek
AG

Amber Griswold

Responds Quickly

CENTURY 21 Northland

(231) 714-6674

70 Total Sales

2 in East Traverse City

$630K - $839K Price Range

Amber Griswold

See All Agents

Schools

Source:

Central High School

8th to 12th
Public

A-

Northwest Education Services - Bridgeway

Pre-K to 12th
Public

Eastern Elementary School

Pre-K to 5th
Public

B+

Explore All Schools

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Danielle Jerome, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Clinch Park Beach

Clancy Park

Highland Park

Huron Hills Park

Run Dog Run

Gens Park

Kids Kove

Traverse City State Park

Eastern Elementary Playground

Transit

Airport

Cherry Capital

8 min drive

Bus

Tom's East Bay (Westbound)

Bus

E Front St & Milliken

Bus

E Front St & E Garfield Ave

Bus

Munson Avenue & Davis Street

Bus

Munson Ave & 8th St

Bus

Indian Trail Blvd & Airport Access

Bus

Airport Access Road & Munson Community Health

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime	East Traverse City	US
Homicide	2	4
Sexual Assault	2	4
Assault with Weapon	2	4
Robbery	2	4
Burglary	3	4
Motor Vehicle Theft	3	4
Larceny	4	4
Crime Score	3	4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood

1,425

Median Year Built

1966

Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft

1,568

Below the national average

1,927

Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft

1,109

Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft

871

Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft

641

Median Lot Size Sq Ft

13,939

Open Houses

Saturday, Jul 26

12 - 2pm
$469,000
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2,125 Sq Ft
1703 Comanche St

New 21 hours ago
Welcome to this pristinely maintained ranch nestled in a charming, walkable neighborhood where comfort meets convenience. Step inside to discover gleaming hardwood floors on the main level and abundant natural light pouring in through brand-new windows. The spacious living room features a cozy gas fireplace, setting the stage for relaxing evenings at home. The main level offers a thoughtfully

Erica Marshall REO-TCFront-233021
Sunday, Jul 27

11am - 12:30pm
$605,000
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2,006 Sq Ft
1330 N Orchard Dr
Recently Remodeled 4-Bedroom Mid-Century Modern Home. Located at the base of Old Mission Peninsula, this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath mid-century modern home is within walking distance to the Bay and Clancy Park. Just minutes from Downtown Traverse City, Northwestern Michigan College, Central High School, and Eastern Elementary, this home offers both convenience and charm. With three

Christina Ingersoll REMAX Bayshore - Union St TC

See Open Houses

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

$399,000
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 1,940 Sq Ft
603 Woodland Dr

New 9 days ago
Tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood on the east side of downtown Traverse City, is this adorable 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home. Just down the street from the Civic Center and East Bay Beach, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy the best of northern Michigan living. Inside you will find bright, natural light, with an inviting layout. Downstairs, a full basement offers tons of potential, use it

Kara Emerich CENTURY 21 Northland
$309,900
- 1 Bed
- 1 Bath
- 650 Sq Ft
1825 E Eighth St

Unit 111

New 10 days ago
This desirable corner unit offers abundant natural light, upscale design, and the flexibility to own both an income-generating property and a personal Northern Michigan retreat. Featuring 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with high-end finishes throughout, this fully furnished condo is short-term rental friendly. Enjoy exclusive access to a rooftop patio with covered hot tubs and seating areas — the

Trent Sims The Mitten Real Estate Group
$350,000
- 3 Beds
- 1 Bath
- 1,226 Sq Ft
635 Terrace Dr

New 11 days ago
This unique location offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience while being just a short bike ride to the Tart Trail, East Bay or Civic Center. Located at the end of this peaceful tree-lined neighborhood and across the street from the historic Oakwood Cemetery with it's sixty five acre park-like setting, you'll find this charming three bedroom, one bath ranch with main floor laundry,

Holly Gray REO-TCFront-233021

See All Homes

Homes for Rent

$4,000 per month
- House for Rent
- 4 Beds
- 3.5 Baths
- 3,600 Sq Ft
609 Bloomfield Rd

Traverse City, MI
Fully Furnished 4BR/3.5BA | 3,600 Sq Ft Home in Traverse City. Available: September 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026. $4,000/month | $4,000 Security Deposit609 Bloomfield Rd, Traverse City, MI Overview:Enjoy the comfort and convenience of this spacious, fully furnished 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home located in one of Traverse City’s most desirable neighborhoods. Nestled at
$5,500 per month
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
1310 Peninsula Ct

Traverse City, MI
Welcome to a picture perfect home in Traverse City, Michigan. This home is a rare gem in the heart of the region, located on the base of Old Mission Peninsula within the city limits. With 4 large bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, an office and multiple flex spaces, this home offers its tenants the opportunity to work, host, and entertain with ease. From the beautiful foyer entrance with the open staircase

Aubrey Vandemark The Mitten Real Estate Group

See All Homes For Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Danielle Jerome, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population

3,296

Median Age

Population under 18

18.8%

Below the national average

23.8%

Population over 65

24.2%

Above the national average

19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income

$67,795

Below the national average

$71,702

Average Household Income

$83,731

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates

96.7%

College Graduates

51.5%

Above the national average

34.1%

Advanced Degrees

15.4%

% Population in Labor Force

56.8%

Below the national average

65.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation

29''

Average Winter Low Temperature

17°F

Average Summer High Temperature

81°F

Annual Snowfall

87''

Area Factors

Bikeable

Bike Score^®

60 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Walk Score^®

51 / 100

Source: Walk Score

Nearby Neighborhoods

Boardman

Residents don't have to cherry-pick their amenities in this suburban downtown area

Oak Park

A hidden gem close to downtown Traverse City.

Traverse Heights

A dense, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood close to downtown

Central

Walkable suburban neighborhood near the heart of downtown Traverse City.

Downtown Traverse City

Walkable neighborhood with restaurants, shops and beaches.

Old Town

A walkable downtown neighborhood with waterfront hiking.

Search Nearby Neighborhoods

Reviews

Are you familiar with the East Traverse City neighborhood? to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.

Was this page helpful?

Michigan Grand Traverse County Traverse City

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.

Danielle Jerome